I need to hook up a simple wireless connection between my laptop and my robot. I'm on a tight budget, so economy is the key feature I'm looking for. Range is not important (I'll never be standing more than a couple meters away), and data rate isn't particularly important either (I'll be sending very small amounts of data). Two-way communications isn't necessary at this point; the robot needs to receive but doesn't need to data. I should add that I'm in the U.S., and would prefer not to order overseas if I can avoid it.

Yes, but I'm not a big fan of it. First, I've found Bluetooth to be a bit fiddly, even on commercial devices (like my laptop and PDA). Second, it's expensive — SparkFun Bluetooth modules seem to run about $60.

Someone recently pointed me to this $12 RF link, which is more in line with my budget. Any opinions on this one?

well, most people use serial, but usb is becoming popular, too. most development boards come with either serial or usb, the latter being a little more expensive.

bluetooth should be reliable, has good range, its high speed, simple to use, and handles interference very well. but yea, its a bit pricy.

looking at the site for the RF link device, my impression of it is that its good, although a bit slow at only 2400bps. note that its only for one way, meaning one only recieves, and the other only transmits. if you get a second pair ($24), you can transmit and recieve data.